
Buyer and engineer questions
Inflatable seal FAQ
Direct answers to the decisions that usually shape a custom inflatable seal project.
What is an inflatable seal?
It is a hollow elastomer profile that expands with controlled air pressure to contact a mating surface, then retracts before the equipment moves.
When is an inflatable seal better than a compression gasket?
It is useful when the gap changes, the closure is large or uneven, or sliding contact must be reduced during opening and product movement.
Can IKSONIC make a seal to my drawing?
Yes. Rings, frames, profiles and valve positions are reviewed against the groove, gap, material exposure and operating cycle.
Which inflation directions are available?
Common arrangements are axial, radial outward and radial inward. The equipment cross-section determines the useful direction.
Which materials are available?
Silicone, EPDM, NBR and selected specialty compounds can be reviewed. Final suitability depends on the exact compound and actual exposure.
What pressure should I use?
There is no universal pressure for every profile. Use the setting approved for the selected cross-section, groove, gap and prototype test.
Can the seal be rectangular?
Yes, subject to profile geometry, minimum corner radius and joint review.
Can the valve position be customized?
Yes. The inlet position and connection style can be coordinated with available space, tube routing and maintenance access.
Do I need a special groove?
The groove must support and retain the selected profile without blocking expansion. Its dimensions and corner radii are part of the design.
How should the groove be prepared?
Remove burrs, sharp edges, oil, dust and old adhesive. Check the full perimeter and mating surface before installation.
Why is my seal wearing in one area?
Repeated local wear often points to interference, misalignment, a sharp edge or movement before full retraction.
What should I send for a quotation?
Send the section drawing, overall dimensions, gap range, inflation direction, temperature, medium, cleaning chemicals, cycle rate and quantity.
Can a sample be supplied for testing?
Prototype quantities can be discussed. The sample should be tested in the actual groove or a representative fixture before production approval.
Can an inflatable seal correct a misaligned door?
It can accommodate an approved gap range, but it should not be used to pull a damaged or misaligned closure into position.
Start with the equipment
Have a changing-gap sealing problem?
Send the groove drawing, gap range, medium, temperature and expected quantity for an application review.